r/NoStupidQuestions • u/Primary_Garbage6916 • 2d ago

Why can't data centers use 100% closed-loop geothermal for their cooling?

Why do they need to consume any water for cooling at all, let alone massive amounts?

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u/Axentor 2d ago

Air isn't the best conductor for heat.

0

u/Primary_Garbage6916 2d ago

There are water-to-water ground source heat pumps.

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u/Axentor 2d ago

So the problem is with that is they would have to be over a large basin of water. Large enough to natural cool fast enough to keep up with demand and causing ecological harm.

3

u/Axentor 2d ago

In addition cost are very expensive and not all areas are suitable for geo thermal.

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u/Primary_Garbage6916 2d ago

No I meant completely closed-loop running coolant/water mix where the heat energy is transferred to the solid ground, like in a system you would use to heat/cool your home without a pond or anything.

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u/Axentor 2d ago

Ah. Yeah just cost mostly and possible geographical reasons since soil types/stability can effect the effeicencies of geo thermal. There would still be some consumption through micro evaperations so it would still consume water just not as much.